Window caulking service in Ottawa
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Why caulking your windows is important?
Caulking your windows and doors is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce your energy bill. Caulking around windows in the Ottawa and Gatineau area expands and contracts as the seasons change and the house moves. Over time, caulk cracks or shrinks to the point that it no longer has a strong bond with the surface it is applied to. This creates more airflow entering the house.
What are the top 3 reasons to change the caulking around your windows?
1. Water infiltration. The amount of water that can enter through your windows is staggering, and where there’s moisture, there’s mold! We have yet to find anyone who is happy to hear about their mold problems because they didn’t avoid them in the first place.
2. Energy consumption. By caulking your windows, you should save between 7 and 10% on your energy bill.
3. Plagues. The cracks that form in your caulking are a perfect entry point for termites, spiders, house flies and many others.
When is the best time to do caulking around your windows?
There are many factors to consider when determining whether you need to change the caulking on your windows in the Ottawa and Gatineau area. Here is a list of questions to ask yourself to help you in your approach.
When was the house built?
In general, the caulking used to build homes is not the best. This type of product lasts about five years before needing replacement. It is also not uncommon to need to change the caulking within the first year after construction. The house tends to move around a lot during the first year, which can open holes in the caulk, especially if the product is not very flexible.
Have you noticed any cracks or splits?
This is the easiest way to know if caulking needs to be done, because from an aesthetic standpoint it is clear that the product is deteriorating and there are holes that need to be filled.
Have you noticed the presence of drafts, water infiltration or parasites?
In addition to a visual inspection. Heat loss is a common sign that you need to change your caulking. Check your bills and compare to what you were paying before and this can give you a good idea of how much air is getting in.
Are the joints narrow?
Over time, the product begins to get smaller and smaller. This makes it much more susceptible to damage. We recommend that you change it before the damage is too significant.
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To get your free quote, you can either call us at 819-918-9303 or fill out the quote form by clicking the button below.
What areas should be inspected before caulking your windows?
Doors and windows
Water outlets
Electrical outlets
Air vents
Siding joints between vinyl and brick
Skylights
Flashings
What is the best caulking to use?
100% silicone
Benefits :
- The most flexible option. This product will move very easily with the seasons.
- Does not contain organic matter, will be less likely to degrade.
- Good protection against UV rays.
- Lifespan between 10 and 20 years.
Disadvantages:
- The most expensive option.
- Difficult to remove.
- Difficult to apply.
- Does not adhere very well to wooden surfaces.
Blend of polyurethane and silicone
Benefits :
- Easy to apply.
- Strong adhesion.
- Sustainable.
- Cheaper than 100% silicone.
- Lifespan between 8 and 15 years.
Disadvantages:
- Does not have very good UV protection.
Thermoplastics
Benefits :
- The cheapest option.
- Available at any hardware store in individual units.
- Easy to apply.
Disadvantages:
- Doesn’t last very long.
- Shrinks quickly in the presence of UV rays.
- Low adhesion.
- Color changes easily.
In short, if you are looking for a good product that will last a long time in the winters of Ottawa, Gatineau, we recommend using a 100% silicone product. This will give you the best bang for your buck!
Contact us
Don’t neglect your windows. Contact us today to prevent further damages to your home!
